19th March 2019
Did you know that 52% of consumers would like windows with higher energy efficiency levels? 29% would like windows that have the ability to shade against sunlight, 26% would like to see increased use of sustainable materials and 23% would like to see more large ceiling to floor windows in the homes of the future.
These statistics are according to the findings of our latest survey, which draws on the views of 1,000 25-40-year olds that either own or rent homes. In addition to these statistics, 29% of consumers said that smart windows, for example windows that can block the sun, turn into a mirror, or be used as a smart screen, are also desirable. This is just another example that as consumers’ appetite for technology grows, homeowners and home occupiers hope that all aspects of their homes, including windows, will be designed and built with technology incorporated into them.
Architects at leading studios Hawkins Brown, SimpsonHaugh and BDP, as well as property developer The High Street Group, analysed these consumer views of the windows of the future, providing expert insight. When talking about the future of windows, and what we can expect, Francesca Roberts, Hawkins Brown, commented: “It’s about careful placement of the windows and thinking about how light can be flooded into properties in all the right places. It’s not just about light either, you need to think about other factors, such as if the property is near a busy railway or a road and consider how this should impact the placement of windows.
“It’s about finding that sweet spot, through proper testing and analysis. The placement of windows should not be determined by rolling out a standard house type across a site, with the window placement being left to chance. Instead, what’s right for each plot should be considered.”
Whilst 52% of consumers identified improving energy efficiency as the most common driver for investing in new windows, 38% said increasing natural light and 35% said noise reduction, giving the window industry lots to think about.
The survey is part of our ‘The Future Home Report’, and draws on the views of people that either own or rent homes, about design and build considerations for future homes.
The Future Home Report can be downloaded in full here - https://www.eurocell.co.uk/whitepaper